When you’re getting together for a movie marathon or the big game, listening through soundbars and speakers ensures everyone can hear what’s going on, even over the crunch of tortilla chips and kitchen conversations. But not every TV streaming session needs to be broadcast out loud. Whether you’re trying to catch some late-night TV after everyone has gone to bed or you’re catching up on the news before heading out to work, there are plenty of settings where you want to be able to hear the TV without disturbing anyone else. The best way to quietly enjoy TV is with wireless headphones. Wireless headphones for the TV can also be a great option for those who are hearing impaired.
There are a few different options when it comes to wireless headphones for TV. One of the best is wireless RF headphones. These use radio frequencies and have the benefit of being reliable, easy to use and they have less of an issue with latency than Bluetooth sometimes can. But you will need to buy a dedicated pair of headphones just for your TV. Bluetooth is another option, allowing you to use your existing headphones. Amazon Fire TV makes it possible to use Bluetooth headphones. Roku can connect to a pair of wired headphones using WiFi, either through the app or directly through compatible remotes.
We’ve rounded up some of the best wireless headphones for watching TV, plus options if you’re looking to set up Bluetooth on your streaming device.
1. Sony Wireless Headphones for TV Watching
BEST OVERALL
Sony is one of the top brands for audio equipment, and they make a great set of wireless headphones for TVs. Like other options on this list, these headphones rely on a radio frequency signal, rather than Bluetooth, for a more seamless, low latency listening experience. Plus, the sleek headphone stand also doubles as a charging dock.
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2. Sennheiser RS 175 RF Wireless Headphone System
AUDIO UPGRADE
If you’re looking for a premium option, the Sennheiser RS 175 headphones are a solid investment. The 175’s have a more premium build compared with the 120s, wider frequency response and lower harmonic distortion. Plus, the 175 headphones have a more sleek design. The controls on the headphones make it easy to adjust the volume.
3. Avantree Opera Enhanced Dialogue Wireless TV Headphones
MOST VERSATILE
These wireless headphones for TVs from Avantree are a simple option that you can just plug straight into your TV. They feature several different ways to wirelessly connect, making for easier and more convenient streaming. The headphones come with optical, AUX and RCA inputs, giving you a variety of options for how to connect to your TV. Plus, the enhanced audio dialogue makes this a good option for those who are hard of hearing.
4. Roku Ultra 4K/HDR/Dolby Vision Streaming Media Player
BEST FOR ROKU FANS
Roku makes it especially easy to watch TV on personal headphones. You can do so through the app, but anyone who is technologically challenged might appreciate the ability to plug earbuds or headphones directly into the remote itself. Admittedly it’s not truly wireless, but it’s still a great way to watch TV without a cable running all the way across the room. Misplaced the remote? Press the button on the streaming unit, and the remote will make a noise. The remote itself includes a basic pair of wired earbuds.
5. Sennheiser RS120 II On-Ear Wireless RF Headphones
BEST BUDGET
Sennheiser is known for making premium audio gear at a range of prices, and these headphones are an economical option for privately watching TV. The transmitter connects directly to your TV and transmits via radio frequency signals. The transmitter also works as a charging dock for the headphones.
6. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
BEST FOR AMAZON FIRE TV
If you have Amazon Fire TV, you can actually connect directly to your Bluetooth headphones, without needing any special equipment. If you don’t already have Bluetooth headphones, the QC 35 II from Bose is a great option. Plus, if you have a variety of Amazon devices, this is a great pair of headphones to get — they have Alexa built-in.
7. Avantree Audikast Plus Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter
BEST ALTERNATIVE
One alternative to an all-in-one system is a Bluetooth transmitter, such as this one from Avantree. It offers a variety of ways to connect to your TV, such as optical, AUX and RCA. Plus, this transmitter allows you to connect to two pairs of Bluetooth headphones for greater versatility. The drawback of using Bluetooth is the potential for a lag between the audio and visual.